How to safely use a hand truck?

Hand Truck Safely Use Core Procedures

1. Pre-Use Inspection:

   • Tires: Replace if cracks >1/8" (solid tires) or under-inflated (pneumatic).

   • Frame/Hinges: Tighten bolts monthly to prevent structural failure.

2. Load Management:

   • Secure unstable loads: Use straps when load height >1.5x cart height.

   • Prohibited actions:
     ❌ Overloading beyond mesh walls (multi-tier carts)
     ❌ Exceeding 66 lbs per shelf

3. Terrain-Specific Handling
   

   Terrain	Risk	Required Action	Weight Limit
   Ramps/Slopes	• Runaway loads downhill • Backward tip-over uphill	Downhill: Pull hand truck backward Uphill: Push hand truck forward Slope >10°: Mandatory 2-person team (1 operator + 1 spotter)	≤330 lbs
   Stairs	• Tip-over on steps >6" • Wheel jams	Equipment: 3-wheel stair-climbing models ONLY Technique: Keep load LOW and CENTERED Secure: Ratchet straps at bottom ⅔ of load	≤440 lbs
   Uneven Ground (Gravel/Dirt)	• Lateral tipping • Wheel collapse	Tires: Pneumatic (≥35 PSI) REQUIRED Speed: ≤2 mph (0.9 m/s) Path: Clear debris >2" deep	≤500 lbs
   Narrow Aisles (<36" width)	• Hand/finger crush • Load impact on racks	Technique: 1. STOP movement 2. LIFT front wheels 3. PIVOT with wrists (not torso) PPE: Cut-resistant gloves mandatory	All weights

4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

   • Required: Slip-resistant gloves + steel-toe boots.

   • High-risk additions: Safety goggles for sharp objects.

Emergency Response

• Load tipping: Immediately release handles – NEVER attempt manual stabilization.

• Runaway cart on slope: Steer into wall/barrier to stop momentum.

Operational Limits

⚠️ STOP OPERATIONS IF:

• Load exceeds 550 lbs (level ground) or 330 lbs (ramps/stairs)

• Pain/fatigue occurs during movement

Quick-Reference Tables

Table 1: Weight Limits

Table 2: Safety Inspection Checklist

Critical Operation Principles

1. Ramp Operations:

   • 330+ lb loads require 2-person team (1 operator + 1 spotter).

2. Stair Transport:

   • Use dedicated stair-climbing models (440 lb max). Bottom-secure all loads.

3. Tire Safety:

   • Pneumatic tires below 35 PSI are prohibited.

💡 Ultimate Rule:
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED FOR LOADS >550 LBS.
High-risk conditions: Unbalanced loads, oily surfaces, or poor lighting.

Implementation Notes

• All protocols align with industrial material handling standards.

• Confirm your hand truck’s rated capacity via manufacturer label before use.

• Conduct formal training quarterly for high-frequency operators.